Auditions for youth theater

Tuesday

Nov 29, 2011 at 2:00 AM

EXETER — Relationships, depression, social pressure, the overuse of cell phones, abandonment and disappointment will all serve as themes for this year's Christ Church Youth Theater's sixth annual winter show titled "Trapeze."

kary mccafferty

EXETER — Relationships, depression, social pressure, the overuse of cell phones, abandonment and disappointment will all serve as themes for this year's Christ Church Youth Theater's sixth annual winter show titled "Trapeze."

The show, made from scratch by producers Peg Gaillard, Stephanie Denson and director Jeffrey Elwood, is comprised of monologues and musical performances. Auditions for the show will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 and from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 3 at Christ Episcopal Church at 43 Pine St. in Exeter. The show will take place Feb. 9-11, also at the church.

In the past, the show has focused primarily on music, but this year's addition of monologues is designed to allow kids who are not interested in singing to participate.

According to Gaillard, everyone is welcome to audition regardless of religious affiliation. Typically 30-40 kids are cast in the show. Each year a core group returns with plenty of new faces as well.

"It's very organic and word of mouth," Gaillard said on how new kids know to participate each year.

"Trapeze" was chosen as the title of this year's show and overall theme for its metaphorical prowess. Letting go of a trapeze bar to reach another speaks to the constant state of being in flux in life, yet that in these transitional periods are when one can grow the most and gain the strongest sense of clarity," Gaillard said.

While the show is geared toward teens, Gaillard said it should be relatable and appealing to all age groups.

"These are issues that are really much more universal," she said. She added that the music incorporated is a mixture of contemporary pieces and songs from other musicals, adding appeal to a variety of people.

Those interested in trying out are required to prepare a monologue of up to 30 seconds if straight acting is what they are interested in. Potential musical performers need to bring a song up to 32 bars to be sung a capella, with a back-up track, or accompanied by a piano player who will be present.

For more information on the upcoming auditions and show visit http://trapeze2012.shutterfly.com.

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